Publications

Key Takeaways MENA Remains Pro-Democracy: Despite low confidence in political institutions, and the collapse of the Arab Spring’s democratic moment, the majority of MENA citizens still prefer a democratic government. Even in countries with widespread disillusionment, autocracy is not seen as a better alternative. Democracy Dignity: Citizens conceive of democracy as dignity, prioritizing social and economic… Continue reading Democracy as Dignity: What Public Opinion Reveals in MENA

The GCC maritime security strategy centers on strengthening naval capabilities, integrating AI-driven port technologies, and expanding partnerships to protect vital shipping routes. By combining fleet modernization with advanced surveillance systems and diversified global cooperation, Gulf states are building a more resilient and strategically agile maritime posture.

Key Takeaways Structural and Financial Issues Weigh Heavily on Sudan’s Energy Sector: The sector is structurally weak, highly centralized, and underfunded, with aging infrastructure and inefficient, state-dominated operations. Conflict has damaged key assets and prevented rebuilding. Low Capacity is Obstructing Adoption of Renewables: Operational inefficiencies and a shortage of technical expertise are hindering uptake. Some… Continue reading Rebuilding Sudan’s Energy Sector: Pathways to Equitable Post-Conflict Recovery

Iraq’s 2025 parliamentary elections represent a pivotal moment for the country’s stability and regional role. With the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) retaining deep political and military influence, and reformist and Sadrist factions seeking to challenge Iran-aligned dominance, the vote will determine whether Iraq can balance between Washington and Tehran or slide into renewed conflict. The outcome will shape not only Iraq’s governance but the wider Middle Eastern geopolitical order.

Industrial policy, which is the proactive effort by governments to support strategic industries, is experiencing a global resurgence after years of neglect. However, even when interest waned globally, industrial policy had continued to play a key role among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) governments.

China’s engagement with the Maghreb represents a strategic expansion of its Africa and Mediterranean policy, emphasizing infrastructure, resource security, and balanced diplomacy.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has historically relied heavily on subsidies, a form of government assistance that entails the provision of select goods or services at below-cost prices. Fundamentally a price stabilization mechanism and a buffer against the detrimental impacts of economic shocks, subsidies across the region have evolved into instruments of social protection aimed at alleviating poverty and addressing social inequalities, by lowering the cost of living and improving the access of low-income households to food and energy staples. In resource-abundant countries, they further serve as wealth redistribution mechanisms

Abstract This analysis paper examines how young people in Türkiye, who are digitally connected, understand Israel’s war on Gaza. It explores the relationship between their interpretations and their political beliefs, as well as their views on international politics and Türkiye’s foreign policy. This study analyzes nine focus groups (n=51) from various cohorts, including religious-conservative, secular,… Continue reading Türkiye’s Youth Perspectives on the War on Gaza

China-MENA relations are evolving against the backdrop of major regional and global challenges. Great power dynamics are unfolding across the Middle East, shaping regional players’ alignments and strategic considerations. Escalating geopolitical risks and growing trade wars are also exacerbating the global economic outlook, posing challenges to the MENA’s development and stability.  

Dramatic shifts in the geopolitical landscape have placed Syria and Lebanon at a crossroads. As regional and international actors recalibrate their engagement in the Levant, the dynamics of peacebuilding and state recovery are shifting rapidly. Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Qatar, are emerging as key players in war-torn Syria’s reconstruction, moving from proxy politics toward modes of influence driven by development.

On July 2, 2025, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian formally enacted a law suspending Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The move, approved unanimously by Iran’s parliament and endorsed by the Guardian Council, effectively halted inspections and reporting on Iran’s nuclear program by the agency “until the security of the nuclear facilities is guaranteed.” The legislation marks the most significant shift in Iran’s nuclear posture since the country’s accession to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1970.

As the Arab Gulf states transition away from reliance on hydrocarbons and seek to diversify their economies, governments are fostering industries that complement the oil sector, like mid- and downstream industries, logistics and increasingly, sectors less related to hydrocarbons, like tourism and finance. This pivot is underpinned by a digital transformation.